News Room

After years in the industry, Pat Dockstader had seen the ups-and-downs of the alfalfa market and decided diversification was necessary to protect P&T Enterprises from these economic ebbs and flows. He also wanted to do something unique to set the company apart from other growers. So 13 years ago, he took a chance and entered into a partnership that expanded P&T Enterprises into a new area and crop: citrus – particularly, organic citrus.

Drip irrigation has grown in popularity as growers continue to look to conserve water and other resources. The idea of greater water use efficiency (WUE) and resource use efficiency (RUE) is enticing growers, while the expectation of greater yields, a proven benefit of drip irrigation systems, is further making the case. Once it has been decided to convert a field to drip, growers can expect many questions from the irrigation company designing the system – and it’s equally important growers ask questions of their own. Here are the key questions to ask a drip irrigation designer.

The unique crop, soil, topography, and other characteristics of every farm present a strong case that each field should be irrigated to its individual needs. Variable rate irrigation (VRI) systems offer growers the opportunity to customize water application based on specific field conditions and other unique needs of their farm.

Host Tony Kramer invited Sara on the podcast to talk about drip irrigation. In addition to discussing background on the process and some of its benefits, including water use efficiency and ability to work on any terrain, she also shared her process for designing drip irrigation systems and a little bit on RDO Water’s exciting new drip tape retrieval service.

Water management is becoming an increasing concern in agriculture, whether that’s dealing with too much or too little water. This is highlighted by recent events such as last year’s drought in California, flooding in Southern Texas, and depleting aquifers, such as the Ogallala that lies beneath several Midwestern states.

A native of King City, Frank Garcia has nearly 20 years of agriculture and irrigation experience

In a sense, agriculture technology is encouraging farmers to be micromanagers.

25 years ago, Bobby Kempenich had an idea. An idea to launch a business that combined his knowledge of irrigation equipment, a partnership with a local farming operation, and his passion to deliver the best service to farmers.

Since 2012, the Central Coast Water Board has required all growers participate in the Agriculture Order (Ag Order R3-2012-0011) or risk penalties of up to a $10,000 fine, per day until the operation is in compliance.

As they are for all growers, rodents are a major concern for those with drip and SDI systems. Pests like mice, voles, and gophers, when not properly managed, cause yield loss and crop damage. The good news is drip and SDI systems have several unique aspects and natural defenses for efficient and effective rodent management.

Since 2012, the Central Coast Water Board has required all growers’ participation in the Agricultural Order. Recently, they announced their requirement changes for 2017.

RDO Water to host live demo and panel discussion at 2017 Southwest Ag Summit